"Prior to my sons being born I was a full time secretary. I stayed at home to bring up my boys but a few years ago I decided to return to work and went back to office work. I stayed for about 9 months but did not enjoy the experience and it was then that I decided to seek work as a Community Care Worker.

I first became a home-worker working for the private sector and about three years ago joined Ceredigion Social Services Home Care Department working out of Lampeter.

I work part-time - 16 hours a week, my usual week is two mornings and two evening shifts. Morning shift starts about 7.00 am and finishes after lunch and evenings usually start about 4.30 pm and finish about 9.30 pm.

The amount of time I spend in clients' homes vary from half and hour to one hour. Sometimes I work alone or I meet up with another member of our team and we have a double call. I work with a grand team of girls from the 'bosses' down to my co-workers.

The work I do is varied - from personal care to providing a light snack. My clients are all special individuals with different needs. The care package is prepared and I follow the plan prepared. Plans are not 'set in stone' and we have to use our initiatives on occasions - sometimes things go wrong - when these arise we advise our team leader/care coordinator of what action we have taken and if we have any problems we are always able to discuss these.

My work as a Community Care Worker means I am on the move from house to house meeting many people - my clients, co-workers, district nurses. I think my work is worthwhile as I am part of a team that enables individuals to remain in their own homes. Hopefully our work helps families to cope with looking after loved ones who are unwell and need special care.